Zelensky to Speak with Trump on US Peace Plan for Russia-Ukraine

Volodymyr Zelensky. File photo

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to have a conversation with US President Donald Trump after the United States presented a draft peace plan to Ukraine. The proposal, crafted by US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian counterpart Kirill Dmitriev, aims to resolve the ongoing conflict with Russia, notably without any initial Ukrainian input. Zelensky’s office expressed hope in the US plan's potential to "reinvigorate diplomacy," pledging to consider the provisions with the aim of achieving a just resolution.

While Kyiv has expressed tentative support for proposals leading to genuine peace, details remain sparse. Unnamed sources have suggested the draft includes controversial measures such as Ukraine relinquishing parts of the Donbas region, downsizing its military, and giving up certain weapons. Such stipulations appear skewed towards Russian interests, contributing to Ukraine’s reserved response. However, the White House rebuffs claims of demanding major Ukrainian concessions, defending the plan as fair for both parties while continuing diplomatic efforts.

Moscow, meanwhile, has downplayed the proposal's significance, noting the absence of formal consultations. Zelensky recently met with top US military figures in Kyiv, acknowledging Trump's security efforts despite concerns over the plan's perceived leniency towards Moscow. European and Ukrainian officials have voiced concerns about their exclusion from the draughting process, with EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas emphasising the need for a broad international agreement.

In his Thursday address, Zelensky reiterated the necessity of a "worthy peace" that respects Ukrainian dignity. While Trump has initiated various peace efforts since the start of his second term, including high-level meetings with Russian leaders, deep divides persist. As the anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion approaches, conflict continues unabated, with recent Russian attacks reportedly killing and injuring scores of civilians in Ukraine, reported BBC.

Key Takeaways:

• Zelensky to discuss US-Russia peace plan with Trump amidst ongoing conflict.
• The plan reportedly asks Ukraine to make major concessions in the Donbas.
• European leaders and officials stress the need for inclusive negotiations.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now from BBC 2025-11-21